Discover the wonders of our Baton Rouge veterinary clinic as we shed light on a common eye issue in dogs called entropion. This condition affects numerous breeds, leading to discomfort, irritation, and even additional eye complications. Let our veterinarians guide you through the symptoms and various treatment choices available for your furry friend.
Eye Entropion in Dogs
Entropion is a genetic issue where a dog's eyelids turn inward. This inward position leads to regular rubbing of the fur and eyelashes against the eye's surface. This rubbing can result in pain, conjunctivitis, eye infections, corneal ulcers, and even perforations. In certain cases, it can also lead to the development of pigment on the cornea, which can affect the dog's vision.
Entropion is a common problem in several breeds including Toy and Miniature Poodle, Akita, Staffordshire Terrier, Basset Hound, Bloodhound, Bulldog, Dalmatian, Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel, Flat-coated Retriever, Golden Retriever, Gordon Setter, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Irish Setter, Japanese Chin, Bernese Mountain Dog, Labrador Retriever, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdog, Weimaraner, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Pug, Rottweiler, Shar Pei, Shih Tzu, Saint Bernard, Siberian Husky, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Tibetan Spaniel, Vizsla, Yorkshire Terrier, and Clumber Spaniel.
Signs That Your Dog May Have Entropion
Entropion symptoms typically begin when dogs are young, often before they turn one year old. The main indications of entropion are squinting, excessive tearing, and keeping the eyes closed. However, some flat-faced dogs may not show obvious signs of discomfort in specific circumstances.
Treatment for Entropion in Dogs
Sometimes, puppies can outgrow entropion on their own without needing any treatment. But if it's causing discomfort, a procedure called 'tacking' or temporary eyelid eversion can provide relief for young dogs.
To minimize corneal damage, doctors may prescribe antibiotic ointments as a medical treatment for entropion. However, medications cannot cure the condition. Surgery is necessary to fix the problem.
Entropion Surgery in Dogs - Blepharoplasty
If your puppy continues to have entropion issues as they turn one year old, surgery can be performed to correct the problem and alleviate your pup's discomfort.
Two surgeries may be necessary to prevent excessive correction of this condition, which could lead to the eyelids rolling outward. The first surgery is a major correction, followed by a minor corrective surgery.
Your pup may be prescribed medications like ophthalmic antibiotics or lubricants before and after the entropion surgery to treat any conditions caused by the irritation.
The cost of entropion surgery for dogs can vary based on several factors, typically ranging from $500 to $1800. To get the exact cost for correcting your pup's eye condition, contact your vet for details or request a referral to our Board-Certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist at Kleinpeter Veterinary Hospital in Baton Rouge.
The prognosis for Dogs with Entropion
Dog entropion surgery recovery is generally very good, and the condition does not return. That said, recurrence is common in Shar Peis due to their excessive folds of skin around the eyes.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet